blueyonder jumps onto broadband content bandwagon

Telewest has unveiled its new broadband Web site today - it's latest bid to ramp up demand for hi-speed Net access in the UK.

The site is the first time the cableco has attempted to provide broadband content for its users.

Initially, the site will focus on games, entertainment, music, and local content and services. But there are also plans to expand the content on offer and include to include other areas too including shopping.

A spokesman for blueyonder, Telewest's branded broadband service, said: "We're extremely committed to providing broadband content. There is a growing consensus that more and more people are beginning to become willing to pay for content."

Telewest's approach to providing broadband content is in marked contrast to that of BTopenworld, which recently abandoned plans to operate its broadband portal.

Unlike Telewest, which believes broadband access and content are important in recruiting new users, BTopenworld has said it will now concentrate on providing access.

BTopenworld CEO, Andy Green, told The Register: "Our job is not to keep people in the walled garden...we need to concentrate our energy and focus on our access business."

While BTopenworld will provide some content, it's interesting to note the different strategies of the two broadband providers.

Which one will prove the greater success remains to be seen. ®

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